16th Sound of Independence kicks off 235th holiday weekend

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Joe McFadden
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  More than 3,000 Airmen and their families enjoyed food, prizes and a fireworks extravaganza as part of the 16th Annual Sound of Independence celebration at the Hurlburt Field Marina July 1.

The 1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron coordinated the free event for the base community at the start of the Fourth of July weekend.

"It's been absolutely wonderful to have everyone out here," said Maj. Derek Floyd, 1st SOFSS commander. "For us all to be able to come out just to relax and have a good time with family, friends and co-workers is what this is all about."

Floyd thanked the men and women of his squadron as well as the many volunteers, vendors and sponsors who tirelessly worked to make the event possible.

"This was put on by the Airmen and our sponsors for the Airmen, and it's been perfect," he said.

After the presentation of the colors and singing of the national anthem, wing leadership reminded the crowd about the significance behind the holiday, particularly with many fellow Airmen unable to attend the current festivities.

"As we celebrate our Independence Day and enjoy some well-deserved downtime, we should also reflect on the sacrifices made by our deployed teammates throughout the world today," said Col. James Slife, 1st Special Operations Wing commander. "Please keep them and their families in your hearts and minds."

Throughout the event, spectators listened to the grooves of a local cover band and strolled around the sandy beaches of the Sound. They also partook in the various food booths manned by local booster clubs that offered holiday staples like cheeseburgers, barbecue and ice cream.

The Hurlburt Field First Sergeants Association sported a different twist on fundraising by challenging passers-by to toss a football into a target to win hot dogs, nachos and drinks.

"We use the money for people in need and help them out like if their house burns down or a death in the family," said Master Sgt. Larry Vasquez, Special Tactics Training Squadron first sergeant. "This is a family event and we're here to have a good time, but we're also about giving something back."

And next to the food vendors, children roamed the activity center where 1st Special Operations Support Squadron Airmen volunteered to help sign them up before they played in the variety of inflatable castles.

"We've probably signed up a hundred kids so far," said Capt. Woodrow Bell, 1st SOSS intelligence analyst. "This is a great idea to get the family together and have a good time for those who support us."

The celebration ended with a patriotic fireworks display illuminating the summer evening sky and drawing fascinated reactions from various spectators. The pyrotechnic spectacle's conclusion served as the start of a three-day weekend for many.

But for some, the wrap-up of this year's Sound of Independence symbolized not only months of hard work, but a meaningful effort to pay tribute to the men and women in uniform and their families.

"Each year, we're able to give back to the Hurlburt Field community by giving them an opportunity to come out and enjoy a family activity like this," said Robert Scott, 1st SOFSS Landing Zone director and event planner. "This was a time to not only say 'Thank you' to the Airmen for serving, but to the families and dependents and say 'This is for you to come out and have a good time.' This was about recognizing all of you, and it's been great to be a part of it."